Darwin tourism icon Window on the Wetlands to reopen

Window on the Wetlands reopening plans revealed by new operators, with major changes on the horizon.

A CELEBRATION of culture, natural wonder and a good cup of coffee will open to the public next year with a new operator taking over the Window on the Wetlands.

Pudakul Aboriginal Cultural Tours has been awarded the contract to operate the Ludawei tourism site following an extensive Expressions of Interest process.

The previously government-operated site was closed in December, 2020 due to the facility’s cost, age and declining visitor number.

Earlier this year The Department of Environment, Parks and Water Security opened up contracts to private operators to broaden commercial operations at the key tourism site, perched at Ludawei, Beatrice Hill overlooking the Adelaide River floodplains.

Windows is set to reopen under the management of Pudakul Aboriginal Cultural Tours, a 100 per cent Aboriginal owned and operated business.

Visitors in front of the Window on the Wetlands Visitor Centre..

Pudakul Aboriginal Cultural Tours owners and husband and wife business duo Lynette and Graham Kenyon said their winning bid was an opportunity to showcase to showcase the local culture and wetland region in an educational, fun and creative atmosphere.

“Our vision for the future is to make it a destination that offers local and environmental information including the local culture,” Ms Kenyon said.

“Not only will it be a great place for information and a must stop destination.”

Ms Kenyon said to accompany the spectacular views the site would include a new top-floor cafe and displays, with further plans to develop and grow.

Mr Kenyon said the new art gallery would showcase the local Limilngan-Wulna culture.

“We are really excited to be able to provide ongoing and growing employment and training opportunities for our people,” Mr Kenyon said.

The view from Window on the Wetlands. Picture: BART IRWIN

The Window to the Wetlands is expected to reopen in 2022, when renovations are complete.

Parks and Rangers Minister Selena Uibo said the Pudakul Aboriginal Cultural Tours’s submission included a strong tourism focus providing value for the Territory and contributing to Aboriginal employment opportunities in the region.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for Window on the Wetlands to thrive as an extraordinary tourism experience in an iconic setting,” Ms Uibo said.

“The site offers spectacular views of the Adelaide River floodplains, including spectacular lightning storms, and offers huge potential to service the drive market, organised tours and support independent travellers.”

Ms Uibo said lease negotiations were now underway.

The Window on the Wetlands site is 63km southeast of Darwin.